Police rescue abducted cattle dealer from kidnappers’ hideout in Edo
Edo Police Rescue Abducted Cattle Dealer in Intelligence-Driven Operation
Operatives from the Edo State Police Command successfully rescued Peter Balogun, a cattle dealer who had been abducted, after conducting an intelligence-led operation.
CSP Eno Ikoedem, spokesperson for the command, reported that Balogun was taken by suspected kidnappers on July 7, 2026, along the Igarra–Auchi Expressway. Following an intensive search, he was freed on July 15.
The rescue operation involved personnel from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), and the Police Drone Unit. Ikoedem explained that the operation was particularly focused on Imoga Forest and surrounding areas where the suspects had fled.
The breakthrough occurred when the kidnappers spotted a police helicopter, causing them to abandon Balogun and retreat further into the forest. Ikoedem noted that the relentless pressure from security teams, coupled with continuous drone surveillance and aerial patrols, contributed to their decision to flee.
“During preliminary debriefing, the victim informed the police that the repeated helicopter patrols created panic among his captors, forcing them to hastily abandon him,” Ikoedem stated.
Balogun has since been reunited with his family, and police are continuing efforts to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
